"When we arrived we found the open burn and a lot of smoke in the area," Wagner says. "We extinguished the fire."

Bedford police cited Denesha for having an illegal open burn.

"He didn't have a permit to do that," Wagner says. "It is up to the police department to cite individuals or give them a warning if violating the city ordinance."

Wagner says residents can obtain a permit to have an open burn.

"But it's not cheap," Wagner says. "It cost $100 and has to be obtained from Dan Kirk, the plan director and then has to be signed by him, me and the police chief."

But Wagner says just because you apply doesn't mean you will be granted the permit.

"We have to go out and check the area and make sure it is somewhere that is safe to burn," Wagner added. "And that doesn't mean a neighbor might not complain, especially if they have a breathing problem like COPD."

Wagner says after a resident obtains a permit they should wait until the weather is right before burning the debris.

"You want to burn on a still day when the wind is not blowing toward other homes," Wagner added. "That way to the smoke will rise and dissipate."

1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com